Those men, with their slicked back hair, soiling our beautiful parlor with unsightly stains on the wingback chairs! What we need is some protection - in lace, of course! With invention born of this necessity, the antimacassar was developed. Antimacassars once were seen in many a lady’s parlor, as both decoration and protection for the backs of chairs and sofas. The lacework of those times was the inspiration for the this design. This delicate pattern evokes memories of an earlier day, yet is adapted to the modern era. Add beads to the edging of your wrap for a touch of glamour.

This shawl begins with a provisional cast-on at the center, so both ends will match when your project is complete. You may select any provisional CO, but be aware that every row includes both knit and purl stitches, so your provisional cast-on must allow for this. After you complete the first half of your shawl, you will be “unzipping” the cast-on, and then knitting in the opposite direction. This may feel a bit strange at first, but you will see very quickly that your knit and purl patterning will be aligned.

It is easy to modify the width and length of this shawl by deleting or adding lace repeats in either direction.

This pattern includes both written directions and charts.

Gauge Notes: On each side, there are two 7 st wide stockinette lace patterns. Each one should measure about 1.25”/3.175 cm wide before blocking. If you prefer your lace more open, use a larger needle size. Note that the lace will be much more open after blocking.

Notions

Size 6 or E Glass Beads (216)
US 10/1.3 mm steel crochet hook for beading (1)
Tapestry needle

NOTES: The pattern was originally designed for The Sanguine Gryphon’s Fall 2011 film noir pattern line. The Sanguine Gryphon is no more - they have split into two separate companies. This pattern will no longer be sold by SG, but is available as a download on Ravelry.

Black and white photos with colored shawl are (c) The Sanguine Gryphon.